This article is a part of the November/December 2026, Volume 38, Number 6, Audiology Today issue.
What does it mean to be a leader in audiology?
For the 2026 James Jerger Future Leaders of Audiology Conference (JFLAC) cohort, answering that question was at the heart of three days of conversation and connection September 17–19 at the American Academy of Audiology headquarters in Reston, Virginia.
JFLAC is designed to help emerging leaders consider how they can contribute to the future of audiology and the organizations and communities that support the profession. Throughout the conference, participants explored the Academy’s history and priorities, the future of the profession, advocacy, engagement, and the personal and professional qualities that shape effective leadership.
Instead of offering a single definition of leadership, the conference challenged each participant to examine their own leadership potential. Planning Co-Chairs Ursula Findlen, PhD, and Jessica Messermith, PhD, posed a central question—What type of leader do you want to be?—prompting the participants to reflect on their individual strengths, goals, and pathways for deeper involvement.
Academy leaders highlighted strategic priorities and the many ways audiologists can contribute through volunteerism and professional engagement. Advocacy was another key focus, with discussions addressing federal and state issues and the responsibility of staying informed and involved in shaping the future of audiology.
“JFLAC was an incredible experience that helped me better understand my leadership style, learn invaluable leadership concepts, and discover meaningful ways to get involved with the Academy. Connecting with such a fantastic group of supportive peers created an environment that challenged me to grow both personally and professionally while contributing to the advancement of our profession.”
~Caroline Dadowski, AuD
“Being part of JFLAC and connecting with colleagues dedicated to personal and professional growth has reinvigorated my commitment to the Academy’s mission. There is a leader in each of us, and together we can empower and ennoble one another to take the lead.”
~Andy Lau, AuD, ABAC
The program provided practical opportunities for personal growth. Participants developed individual leadership plans and completed a DISC (D-Dominance, I-Influence, S-Steadiness, C-Conscientiousness) analysis led by Janice Coe, PCC, giving them tools to better understand their leadership and communication styles and identify opportunities for continued development.
By bringing together audiologists who share a drive to elevate the profession, JFLAC sparks relationships that can evolve into collaboration, mentorship, and support that will endure well beyond the conference.
The Academy is again pleased to congratulate the JFLAC Class of 2026:
As these audiologists begin the next stage of their leadership journeys, the Academy looks forward to the contributions they will make to the profession, their communities, and the future of audiology.
